Box Score PREGAME
Mission returned to W.E. Dowell Fieldhouse riding the momentum of a home win over Haskell, entering the matchup at 3–4 on the season. Monday's contest also marked the team's final home game before a challenging road trip to Harding University on November 22.
Bethany arrived at 3–2, looking to bounce back from a loss to Avila. With both teams aiming to build stability before conference play, the matchup set up as a high-scoring test of tempo and execution.
1st Half — Bethany 50, Mission 48
The first half unfolded as a tightly contested offensive duel. Mission stayed within striking distance by leaning heavily on the production of Clifford Barrow and Najee Williams, who combined for a large share of the Patriots' early scoring. Mission's guards kept the offense moving, and the Patriots remained efficient inside the arc while matching Bethany on the boards.
Bethany, however, maintained a narrow edge through balanced scoring from its starting lineup. The Swedes relied on consistent shot-making from Keddric Mays II and Donovan Newton, allowing them to retain control despite Mission's pressure. Neither team built a meaningful run, and the half closed with Bethany holding a slim 50–48 lead.
2nd Half — Mission 89, Bethany 89
The second half mirrored the first in competitiveness. Mission continued to rely on Barrow and Williams, both of whom created scoring opportunities through drives, perimeter shooting, and transition chances. Justin Gill contributed with interior scoring and rebounding, and Mission's reserves added steady minutes, particularly Sterling Vinson, who chipped in from both the perimeter and the free-throw line.
Bethany countered with another strong scoring half, led again by Mays and Newton, while JJ Warfield and Will Martinez added key points to keep the Swedes in rhythm. Neither side backed away from an up-tempo pace, and despite minor surges from both teams, the score repeatedly returned to a one-possession margin.
In the closing minutes of regulation, Mission stayed composed enough to force overtime, finishing the second half tied 89–89.
Overtime — Bethany 105, Mission 93
Overtime shifted the momentum sharply. Bethany struck first and never relinquished control, posting 16 points in the extra period while holding Mission to just four. The Swedes' ability to generate second-chance opportunities and convert free throws created the separation they had struggled to find earlier.
Mission's offense, strong for the first 40 minutes, stalled in the final five. Despite continued efforts from Barrow and Williams, the Patriots struggled to find clean looks, and Bethany used its efficient scoring to secure the final 105–93 result.
POSTGAME WRAP-UP
Mission's offense once again centered around its backcourt:
Mission finished with 45 total rebounds but was hampered by 18 turnovers, which Bethany capitalized on across all four periods.
With the loss, Mission moves to 3–5 on the season. The Patriots now shift their focus to the road, where they will face Harding University on November 22 at 7:30 PM.
